Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in National City, CA.

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Working with young children requires that the professional possesses specialized knowledge and skills that enable them to identify problem behaviors and formulate appropriate interventions that are developmentally appropriate for the child. As a psychologist trained to work with children and families, I develop individualized treatment plans appropriate to each child's and family's specific needs. Working with children, I use an playful approach which will engage the child in addressing any psychic conflicts they may be experiencing and find healthy ways to address those conflicts so that children can function at their most optimal level in all facets of life.

Dr. Peck is a child and adolescent psychologist with extensive training and experience in working with children and adolescents between the ages of 7 and 18. She provides treatment and coping skills training for young children struggling with anxiety, stress, mood, and feeding issues. Therapy is focused on training children in a lifelong skill set that allows them to live a healthy, happy, and productive life. Life skills training includes the teaching and practice of concrete skills focused on managing and regulating emotions, tolerating stress, communicating with peers and family, and organization. Through parent training, parents learn to be their childs' skills coach.

After 11 years of working with children, I find it more effective to work with you, the parent. This is not because you are responsible for the way your child is behaving or what your child is going through, but because you have the most positive power and influence in your child's life. If I can use what I know through education and experience to empower you the parent to connect to your child, it will be more impactful and long lasting than if I spend therapy sessions with them. Your child will also find healing through their relationship with you, increasing trust, and strengthening your relationship for the present and future. You will have your Parenting Power back, stronger than ever!

GRIT Kids exists to allow parents or caregivers to aid their children in the work of self-awareness—at every developmental stage— to better understand themselves and the world around them. Simple behavioral management fails to develop the internal locus of control that is necessary for developing character and self-discipline. Forming a self-identity and learning to live with purpose is a necessary life skill for children to learn in order to live into their fullest self. GRIT Kids Coaches are trained to help you do the work of raising your child with intention so you can see that little person grow into all they are capable of.

Having worked in the elementary schools as well as raising six young children myself, I have extensive experience in working with this group. I use a family systems approach to therapy and prefer to partner with parents in the treatment of their children. If family therapy is not a possibility, I will see children on their own, also creating a strong collaborative alliance with their parents.

When working with young children I make use of play exercises, as playing is one of the primary ways in which children express what is going on in their "world" both mentally and emotionally. I also place significant emphasis on their family life, as a child's behavior is strongly impacted by their home life. I also provide parent coaching in order to equip the parents with effective skills to manage the child's behavioral difficulties. I believe that effectively helping a child often requires both individual therpay with the child and family therapy.

Today it is more complicated than ever to be a teen. With so much going on, it’s common for teens and children feel anxiety, irritability, isolation, low self esteem, and sadness. Teens just need someone to talk to, that isn’t a family member about difficult topics they are experiencing. It’s not that they don’t trust their family, but many times teens need a private, non-judge mental space of their own to gain insight. I have extensive experience working with teens and children, even those resistant to therapy. I specialize with teens managing high academic & athletic achievement. Through therapy teens will learn to manage their emotions, reach goals, and grow into healthy young adults.

Dr. Regina Knox's approach to children's therapy is rooted in deep understanding, genuine empathy, and the flexibility to meet each child where they are. Recognizing the individuality of every child, Dr. Knox creates a nurturing and comforting therapeutic space that encourages trust and open dialogue. Through tailored and age-appropriate methods, she guides children in articulating their feelings and navigating their personal challenges. Grounded in her years of expertise and research, Dr. Knox is dedicated to fostering not just momentary relief, but long-term emotional and cognitive development in the children she serves.

Many therapists share they use play therapy in their practice with children, but have not taken further training on its use in therapy. I am a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, which means I completed 3 years and 3000 additional hours of practice after licensure, clinical supervision, consistent continued education courses, and significant focus in at least two play therapy evidence based practices. I utilize Child Centered Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, Digital Play Therapy, and Prescriptive Play Therapy to address children's needs in addition to creative arts therapies (Drama Therapy, Art Therapy interventions).